Book details
A song for Jamela
Published in
2009
Description
The summer holidays are here, and Jamela is as bored as a girlcan be! All she can think about is the Afro-Idols TV final - so when she lands a job at Divine Braids hair salon, she can't believe her eyes at the arrival of glamorous Afro-Idols celebrity Miss Chaka Chaka. But while Jamela's idol dozes and Aunt Beauty designs her starry hairdo, a buzzy fly appears on the scene and threatens to ruin everything... Can creative Jamela save the day?
Praise for the Jamela books:
'Filled with the musical language of South Africa... a delightful read-aloud.'
School Library Journal
'Bursting with life and charm... his depiction of South African town life makes you want to walk right down the streets.'
Times Educational Supplement
Jamela's Dress - first in the Jamela series - was a milestone book, chosen by the ALA as a Notable Children's Book and by Booklist as one of the Top 10 African American Picture Books of 2000, and winning both the Children's Literature Choice Award and the Parent's Choice Silver Award. It was followed by What's Cooking, Jamela?, Where's Jamela? and Happy Birthday Jamela!
Age
4-7
Text complexity
intermediate
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Cultural Exposure: 'A Song for Jamela' by Niki Daly provides readers with a rich glimpse into South African culture, offering an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the diversity of traditions, values, and experiences that shape the lives of people in this vibrant country.
- Empowering Message: The book tells the story of a young girl named Jamela who faces challenges and learns important life lessons. It promotes themes of empowerment, self-confidence, and the importance of following one's dreams, making it an inspiring read for children and adults alike.
- Stunning Illustrations: Niki Daly is not only an acclaimed writer but also a talented illustrator. His artwork in 'A Song for Jamela' is both beautiful and expressive, capturing the essence of the characters and their environment, which enhances the reading experience.
- Engaging Storytelling: Daly is known for his ability to weave captivating tales that engage young readers. 'A Song for Jamela' is no exception, with its well-crafted plot, relatable characters, and a narrative that keeps readers invested in Jamela's journey from beginning to end.